Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy flavors that melt perfectly over tender, flaky fish, you’re going to absolutely adore this Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy enough for guests yet is so simple and quick you can whip it up on a weeknight without breaking a sweat. Trust me, once you try it, salmon will never feel boring again!
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Combining a few pantry staples with Boursin cheese makes for an elegant flavor without fuss.
- Creamy Garlic Goodness: The Boursin cheese gives a luscious, garlicky sauce that perfectly complements the salmon’s mild flavor.
- Quick Cooking Time: From fridge to table in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Flexible Technique: Easy to adjust cooking times to accommodate different salmon thicknesses or preferences.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe is chosen to build that creamy, garlicky flavor without overpowering the natural salmon taste. Plus, each component is easy to find, so you can grab everything in one store run effortlessly.
- Fresh salmon: Always pat dry for the best sear and look for fillets about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle garlic flavor that’s less harsh than raw garlic and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skimp here as it brightens the whole dish.
- Olive oil & butter: Olive oil prevents sticking, while butter adds richness and helps brown the salmon beautifully.
- Onion: Sautéed to golden perfection, it adds sweetness and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Chicken broth: The base liquid that creates a silky sauce; low sodium works best if you’re watching salt.
- Fresh lemon juice: The brightness of lemon cuts through the richness, balancing flavors perfectly.
- Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic cheese: The star of this recipe — creamy, herby, and garlicky, it’s what transforms salmon into a restaurant-worthy dish.
- Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds just the right amount of herbal freshness at the end.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe is how versatile it is. I usually keep it classic as written, but sometimes I like experimenting with veggie sides or swapping the herbs in the Boursin for something seasonal.
- Variation: I once tried adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the salmon before searing, which gave a lovely smoky depth that was a hit at a dinner party.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, swap Boursin for a vegan garlic-herb cream cheese alternative and it still works beautifully.
- Seasonal Twist: In warmer months, I’ll throw in some fresh dill or chives to brighten that sauce even more.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a little heat if you like a bit of kick, and it balances the creaminess perfectly.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Salmon
First things first—take your salmon out of the fridge about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the salmon from steaming in the pan. I like to pat each piece dry with paper towels, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper all over. This little touch sets the stage for that crispy, flavorful crust we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter and olive oil. When it’s hot and shimmering, place the salmon skin-side down (if it has skin). Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked inside yet—that’s intentional! We’re building a golden crust and locking in juices. Once seared, transfer the salmon to a plate to rest.
Step 3: Sauté Onions & Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in your chopped onion and cook for about five minutes until they soften and take on a nice golden hue. This caramelization adds wonderful sweetness. Next, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then stir in that luscious Boursin cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts entirely into a smooth, creamy sauce. Let it bubble gently for another 4-5 minutes to thicken up and marry the flavors.
Step 4: Finish Cooking the Salmon in the Sauce
Return the salmon to the skillet, nestling it right into that garlicky sauce. Turn down the heat to low-medium and let it cook gently for another 3-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The sauce will thicken further and coat the fish beautifully. Stir in fresh parsley at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Taste and Serve Immediately
Give your sauce a quick taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed — sometimes the broth and cheese balance out differently depending on brands. Serve the salmon straight from the pan for the best experience, spooning that garlicky Boursin sauce over the top. Yum!
Tips from My Kitchen
- Pat Lunch, Not Dinner Dry: I always dry the salmon well to get that satisfying sear; wet fish just steams and won’t brown.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the Boursin melt slowly with the broth and lemon juice or you’ll end up with lumps; stirring helps it come together silky smooth.
- Check Thickness: If your salmon’s thicker than an inch, add an extra minute or two per side at the searing stage to ensure it cooks through.
- Skin Got You Stumped? If you don’t want skin, just peel it off after searing—it slips right off easily without messing with the fillet.
How to Serve Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
I like finishing this Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe with a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley—just for that bright, herbaceous lift against the creamy sauce. Sometimes, a few lemon wedges on the side are perfect for any who want an extra pop of citrus.
Side Dishes
Simple steamed asparagus or roasted green beans are my go-tos; their crunch contrasts nicely with the creamy salmon. I’ve also paired it with wild rice pilaf or buttery mashed potatoes, both soaking up the garlicky sauce beautifully for a comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, I like serving the salmon on a bed of creamy polenta or draped over a nest of sautéed spinach. A few edible flowers or microgreens sprinkled on top make it look restaurant-worthy—and guests always ask for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 2 days for best flavor. The sauce can thicken in the fridge, so it might seem rich but heats up just fine.
Freezing
I usually don’t freeze this recipe because salmon texture changes after freezing and thawing, but if you want to, separate the salmon from the sauce and freeze each in airtight containers for better results.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in a microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking the salmon. Adding a splash of chicken broth helps loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen salmon for the Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to get a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
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What if I can’t find Boursin cheese?
If Boursin isn’t available, try substituting with a cream cheese blended with minced garlic and fresh herbs like chives, parsley, and dill to mimic those flavors.
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How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
Look for salmon that flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque all the way through. The internal temperature should be around 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium, moist salmon.
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Can I make this Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the Boursin with a dairy-free creamy garlic-herb spread and use olive oil instead of butter. The sauce will be slightly different but still delicious.
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What sides pair well with this salmon recipe?
Steamed or roasted veggies like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli, along with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes all complement the creamy Boursin sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe has quickly become one of those meals I count on when I want something both comforting and impressive without all the hassle. It’s creamy, flavorful, and just the right balance of indulgence and freshness. I truly hope you get as much joy from cooking and eating it as I do—and don’t be surprised if it ends up on your regular rotation too!
Print
Boursin Garlic Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This delicious Boursin Salmon recipe features fresh salmon fillets cooked in a creamy garlic and herb Boursin cheese sauce, enhanced with sautéed onions, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Perfectly seared to retain moisture and finished in a rich sauce, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 pound fresh salmon cut into 4 pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 3/4 cup chicken broth (use low sodium if sensitive to salt)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 (5.2 oz/150g) package Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic cheese softened
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Salmon: Take the salmon out of the fridge 15-30 minutes prior to starting the recipe if possible. Cut it into 4 pieces. Pat each piece dry and season with the garlic powder and some salt & pepper.
- Sear Salmon: Add the butter and olive oil to a skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the salmon. Cook for 4 minutes per side or until lightly browned. Do not overcook the fish; it shouldn’t be cooked fully yet. Transfer the salmon to a plate.
- Sauté Onions: To the skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened and lightly golden.
- Make Sauce: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and the softened Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until you achieve a smooth sauce. Let it bubble gently for about 5 minutes, then stir in the chopped parsley.
- Finish Cooking Salmon: Return the salmon back into the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes or so over low heat until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt & pepper if needed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This recipe is designed for salmon pieces approximately 1 inch thick. Adjust searing time accordingly for thicker or thinner pieces.
- If your salmon has skin and you prefer not to eat it, peel it off after the searing step.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 4 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg